Jitan Ram Manjhi Critiques Tejashwi Yadav's Stance on Bihar's Liquor Policy
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Patna, April 7 (NationPress) Union MSME Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi has launched a pointed critique against Tejashwi Yadav, the RJD National Working President, concerning Bihar's liquor policy during a membership event held in Gaya on Tuesday.
Manjhi’s comments were prompted by Yadav's earlier condemnation of the Nitish Kumar administration regarding the state's liquor regulations and the recurring incidents of hooch tragedies.
Recently, a devastating hooch tragedy in East Champaran claimed 11 lives, with over 15 others currently fighting for their lives in hospitals after consuming adulterated liquor.
In his remarks, Manjhi challenged Yadav to reflect and pinpoint those connected to the alleged sand and liquor mafia in Bihar, asserting that these individuals have ties to the opposition leader.
He emphasized that the liquor prohibition policy was established with the agreement of all political factions and is fundamentally robust but acknowledged significant shortcomings in its execution.
“Numerous cases have been initiated against the impoverished, while major smugglers evade justice,” he stated.
Manjhi accused powerful individuals involved in extensive smuggling operations of escaping law enforcement, while the underprivileged face strict penalties for minor violations.
He underscored the urgent need for reforms to ensure just and effective law enforcement.
Manjhi highlighted the inequality in enforcement, calling for authorities to take decisive action against large-scale offenders rather than disproportionately penalizing the disadvantaged.
On Tuesday, a membership induction event was organized by the Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) at its district office in Bhusanda, Gaya.
During this event, Union Minister and party patron Manjhi welcomed numerous individuals from various political and social organizations into the party.
He encouraged the newcomers to play an active role in bolstering the organization at the grassroots level.
Concluding on a lighter note, he reiterated to the media that the event aimed at expanding membership rather than hosting a wide-ranging political debate.